In 2028, Labour Thanksgiving Day falls on a Thursday, so the Friday after is often taken as a bridge day.
About Labour Thanksgiving Day
Labor Thanksgiving Day (Kinro Kansha no Hi) is a Japanese public holiday on 23 November that honours labour, production and mutual gratitude among citizens. Established in its modern form in 1948, it replaced the older Niiname-sai, an ancient harvest ritual in which the emperor offers the season's first rice to the deities and gives thanks. It is one of Japan's oldest continuously observed autumn festivals in origin.
Modern observance frames the day around thanking workers, and many organisations hold labour-related events. Schoolchildren commonly make cards or small gifts for public-service workers such as police officers and firefighters. Nagano's Nagano Ebisu-ko fireworks festival takes place around this time. The imperial Niiname-sai harvest rite is still performed privately by the emperor, linking the modern holiday to its centuries-old agricultural roots.
Labour Thanksgiving Day · 2025–2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Labour Thanksgiving Day 2028 in Japan?
Thursday, Thursday, 23 November 2028.
Is Labour Thanksgiving Day a public holiday in Japan?
Labour Thanksgiving Day — Public holiday (Japan).